West Devon Borough Council has set up an online support directory to help residents find help this winter.

The directory will provide information and contact details for a wide range of services including information on how to apply for the Household Support Fund, help for those with mobility issues and applications for Personal Independence Payments and a list of places to contact for financial and practical help such as foodbanks and mental health organisations.

Cllr Tony Leech, lead member for leisure, health and wellbeing at West Devon Borough Council, said: ’As well as the range of support services we provide as a council, we’re very lucky to have many excellent local support groups actively helping people of all ages across the borough. We recognised that it can sometimes be hard for people to know where to go for help. That’s why we’ve put together this directory as a one-stop shop to make sure local people can get the support they need.

’The Household Support Fund is providing a lifeline to local people who can’t pay for essential bills. But there are lots of other ways we can also help. For example, we can arrange for adaptations to your home to help you to live independently.

’Our team are also here to support people threatened with homelessness or struggling to pay their rent and help to reduce energy costs. And by working closely with a number of other agencies that provide more specific support we can make sure you to get the help you need when you need it.’

The council will update the directory regularly to ensure people can continue to access the support they need. The directory comes as part of the council’s long-term plan to improve mental and physical health across the region.

The Household Support Fund provides short-term financial help for those struggling to pay for essentials such as food and household bills. For more information, visit www.westdevon.gov.uk/support-directory.